1. Losing Weight Safely Not Just Quickly: How often haven't you seen ridiculous weight-loss claims? Most diet plans are not plain scams and fraudulent but they also can be very unhealthy for you. So make sure that the diet and weight loss plans that you follow emphasize on losing weight safely than the quick gimmick weight loss.

2. Long Term Weight Loss: Losing a lot of weight in a very short period of time seems very tempting but it is equally important that you maintain your weight once you lose it. So choose the program tailored along the long term weight-loss goals along with your ongoing efforts to shed those extra pounds.

3. Customer Support: Find out about their customer service. Do research on the web, read through the reviews, give them a call to ask questions you have. It is just not worth joining any program without proper customer service.

4. Cost of the Program: Make sure that the weight-loss program is not burning deep holes in your pocket. It is important to know that you are being charged reasonable and not being taken for a ride.

5. Community Centers/ Social Network: A good program will have a good user community forum or an online social network or local community centers to give you every ounce of motivation and encouragement you need to lose weight.